Crispy Fried Calamari (Italian Restaurant Style + Air Fryer Option)

This crispy fried calamari recipe delivers a light golden coating with tender squid every time. Includes both deep fried and air fryer methods for a classic restaurant-style appetizer at home.

Course Appetizer

Cuisine Italian

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 5

Servings Servings

Calories 260

Author Ronda Eagle | Kitchen Dreaming

Ingredients

1 lb calamari rings , cleaned
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Cooking spray (for air fryer)
Lemon wedges , for serving
Marinara sauce , for serving

Instructions

Deep Fried Calamari (Restaurant Style)

Pat calamari dry with paper towels.
Soak in buttermilk for 20 minutes.
In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Remove calamari from buttermilk and dredge in flour mixture.
Heat oil to 350°F.
Fry calamari in small batches for 2–3 minutes until golden.
Drain on paper towels.
Serve immediately with marinara and lemon wedges.

Air Fryer Calamari (Healthier Option)

Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
Pat calamari dry and soak in buttermilk for 20 minutes.
Mix flour, cornstarch, and seasonings.
Coat calamari evenly in flour mixture.
Lightly spray calamari with cooking spray.
Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Air fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Serve hot with marinara and lemon wedges.

Notes

Do not overcrowd (important for both methods)
Frying longer than 3 minutes can make calamari rubbery
Cornstarch helps create a lighter, crispier coating
Air fryer results are slightly lighter but still crispy

Nutrition:

Calories: 250–300 per serving
Fat: varies based on cooking method

Nutrition